Bolus administration does not increase the extravasation rate of Albumin

In conclusion, the present results suggest that albumin might be given as a bolus without leading to increased extravasation of albumin, in contrast to previous animal experiments in rodents” von Seth et al (2016).

Abstract:

Some experimental data suggest that rapid bolus administration of albumin causes less plasma-expanding effects than slow, continuous infusion. To determine whether rapid bolus administration, in comparison with slow infusion, results in greater extravasation of albumin in experimental septic shock we performed a randomized controlled trial with 32 endotoxemic pigs.

The animals were monitored and ventilated with standard intensive care equipment and given 10 mL x kg 5% albumin labeled with Technetium-99m, either as a rapid 15-minute bolus (Bolus group, n = 16) or as a 2-hour (h) infusion (Infusion group, n = 16). Radioactivity was monitored in plasma, extracellular microdialysate and urine for 6 h. Physiological parameters were monitored hourly. Radioactivity in the liver, spleen, kidney and lung was analyzed post-mortem.The plasma area under the curve (AUC) activity0-6h was 4.4 ± 0.9 x 10 in the Bolus group and 4.4 ± 1.1 x 10 counts x min x mL x h in the Infusion group. Blood hemoglobin levels increased in both groups, suggesting severe capillary leakage. Yet, there were no group differences in albumin radioactivity in plasma, muscle tissue, urine or in the post-mortem analysis of the organs. Following albumin administration, circulatory and respiratory parameters were similar in the two groups.In conclusion, the present results suggest that albumin might be given as a bolus without leading to increased extravasation of albumin, in contrast to previous animal experiments in rodents.